Nōtan Geometric Designs

Lesson Summary

Japanese Nōtan designs explore the concept of light and dark, focusing on the balance of positive and negative space. In this art lesson, students will Nōtan designs using various geometric shapes such as circles, triangles and octagons, learning to manipulate and balance contrasting shapes and spaces. This lesson will enhance their understanding of symmetry, balance, and the aesthetic principle of Nōtan.

Lesson Objectives

• Understand the concept of Nōtan and its significance in Japanese art.

• Develop skills in creating balanced designs using positive and negative space.

• Explore symmetry and contrast through hands-on art creation.

• Practice making precise and intricate cuts on paper using a craft knife to improve your control and accuracy.

 (Have Laminated Traceable Shapes templates ready) 

1. What do you find intriguing about Nōtan and its focus on light and dark?
   Nōtan is interesting because simple black and white shapes can create strong, balanced designs. It shows that light and dark both matter equally.

2. How can Nōtan principles be used in other art forms?
   They help in painting, design, and photography by teaching how contrast and space make images clearer and stronger.

3. Why is it important to consider both positive and negative space?
   Both are needed for balance. Ignoring negative space can make a design feel messy or unclear.

4. How does symmetry help in Nōtan design?
   Symmetry makes the design feel balanced and connected, which looks more pleasing.

5. What challenges can come up in Nōtan design, and how can they be solved?
   It can be hard to balance light and dark shapes. Try sketching, using simple forms first, and practicing different layouts.

Nōtan Design Steps

1. Cut a Square:

   • Start by cutting a 12 x 12 cm square from the colored construction paper of your choice. This square will serve as the base for your Nōtan design.

2. Draw a Geometric Shape:

   • Select a geometric shape and draw it on your square piece of construction paper.

3. Draw Additional Shapes:

   • On one side of the geometric shape, lightly draw simple shapes or patterns with a pencil. These could be geometric, organic shapes, or objects.

4. Cut Out the Shapes:

   • Carefully cut out the shapes you’ve drawn. Keep both the cut-out shapes and the colored square with the holes.

5. Flip and Arrange:

   • Flip the cut-out shapes outward, like opening a door, and position them along the edges of the square so that they mirror the shapes on the opposite side. This will create a symmetrical design.

6. Glue the Square:

   • Glue the geometric shape in the center of a larger piece of white construction paper.

7. Glue the Shapes:

   • Attach the flipped cut-out shapes onto the white paper, making sure they align perfectly with the edges of the geometric shape.

8. Review and Refine:

   • Ensure all shapes are glued flat and properly aligned. Adjust if necessary to create a clean, balanced design.

9. Admire Your Work:

   • Once the glue is dry, step back and admire the balance of light and dark in your Nōtan design!

Terminology

• Nōtan: A Japanese design concept focusing on the balance of light and dark elements.

• Positive Space: The area occupied by the main subjects of the artwork.

• Negative Space: The background or the space around and between the subjects of an artwork.

• Symmetry: Balanced proportions on either side of a dividing line.

• Contrast: The difference in visual properties that makes an object distinguishable from other objects and the background.